Name: Creamy Cheeseburger Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium potatoes; 1 lb lean ground beef; 4 tbsp salted butter; 3/4 cup onion, diced; 3/4 cup baby carrots, chopped; 3/4 cup celery, diced; 2 tsp minced garlic; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups milk; 3 cups chicken stock or broth; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp garlic salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed; 1 cup sour cream; Optional Toppings: diced dill pickles, shredded cheese

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Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food in a bowl! Loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender potatoes, onions, carrots, celery, and melted cheese, this soup is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for chilly nights, it combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a rich, creamy base that will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup has everything you want in a cozy, filling meal—protein from ground beef, creaminess from Velveeta and sour cream, and hearty vegetables to balance it all out. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, crowd-pleasing, and customizable with fun toppings like pickles and shredded cheese. Each spoonful tastes like comfort, making it ideal for family meals or entertaining.

Creamy Cheeseburger Soup

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 medium potatoes
1 lb lean ground beef
4 tbsp salted butter
3/4 cup onion, diced
3/4 cup baby carrots, chopped
3/4 cup celery, diced
2 tsp minced garlic
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
3 cups chicken stock or broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp garlic salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
16 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
1 cup sour cream

Optional Toppings:

Diced dill pickles
Shredded cheese

Directions

Scrub and pierce potatoes with a fork, then microwave for 12–15 minutes until tender. Let cool, peel, and cut into chunks.
In a large pot, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Remove to a paper towel–lined plate and drain excess fat.
Melt butter in the same pot. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until thickened.
Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk. Season with salt, garlic salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
Add back the beef and potatoes. Stir in Velveeta until melted and smooth.
Remove from heat and stir in sour cream.
Serve hot with optional toppings like pickles or shredded cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 10 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Healthier Version: Swap Velveeta for shredded cheddar and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Low-Carb: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets.
Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with lentils or meatless crumbles.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Not recommended due to the dairy, which may separate when thawed.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often. Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the beef separately, then combine everything except sour cream in the slow cooker for 4–6 hours on low. Stir in sour cream before serving.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, cheddar, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack work well.

Do I have to cook the potatoes in the microwave?

No, you can boil or roast them instead.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Is Velveeta necessary?

It adds creaminess, but you can replace it with shredded cheese and a splash of cream.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great leaner substitutes.

How do I make it thicker?

Simmer uncovered longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux.

How do I thin the soup if it’s too thick?

Stir in additional chicken broth or milk until desired consistency is reached.

Can I prep this soup ahead of time?

Yes, prepare up to the step before adding sour cream, then refrigerate. Reheat, stir in sour cream, and serve.

What toppings work best?

Diced pickles, shredded cheese, or green onions make it extra fun and flavorful.

Conclusion

Creamy Cheeseburger Soup is a hearty, satisfying meal that brings the flavors of your favorite cheeseburger into a warm and cozy bowl. With tender potatoes, seasoned beef, and a rich cheesy broth, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknights or gatherings. Add your favorite toppings to make it your own and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience!

Jessica